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Ukraine War: UK Resists Putin’s ‘Shameless Grandstanding’ as Debate Over Long-Range Missiles for Ukraine Intensifies
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has made it clear that the UK and its allies will not be “bullied by Putin’s shameless grandstanding,” as pressure mounts for Britain to approve long-range missile deliveries to Ukraine. Speaking on Sky News’ Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips, Lammy condemned the Russian president’s threats to use nuclear weapons if the West continues to arm Ukraine, calling them “totally unacceptable.”
This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy continues to urge the West to send Storm Shadow long-range missiles, allowing Ukrainian forces to strike deeper into Russian territory. However, no decision has been made following meetings between UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and US President Joe Biden in Washington, DC.
Western Allies Debate Supplying Long-Range Missiles
While Starmer and Biden discussed defense cooperation during their recent talks, the issue of long-range missile supply to Ukraine remains unresolved. Sources suggest that Starmer was seeking US approval for the use of Storm Shadow missiles, as critical components of the system are manufactured in the United States. Despite these efforts, no consensus was reached, and the decision remains a subject of ongoing debate among Western allies.
David Lammy, when asked about the lack of a decision, refrained from disclosing operational details. He emphasized that these discussions are continuing and reiterated that the West would not be swayed by Putin’s nuclear threats. “We won’t be bullied by Putin’s shameless grandstanding. What he should now do is cease his aggression and leave Ukraine,” Lammy stated, echoing the West’s firm stance against Russian escalation.
Criticism Over Delay in Decision-Making
Shadow Home Secretary James Cleverly expressed disappointment that the Labour government had not yet secured an international agreement for Ukraine to use the long-range missiles. Cleverly, who previously served as foreign secretary, remarked that the UK had “led the field” in providing Ukraine with crucial defense systems during his tenure. He called on Starmer’s government to push harder to meet Ukraine’s requests.
“It’s complicated negotiations, but we’ve had a successful track record up until now,” Cleverly explained, stressing that the UK should continue its efforts to support Ukraine’s defense needs.
Ukraine’s Determination to Secure Long-Range Missiles
Ukraine remains unwavering in its plea for long-range missiles to bolster its military efforts. Natalia Galibarenko, Ukraine’s head of mission to NATO, stated that Kyiv would not give up on this request. Speaking to Trevor Phillips on Sunday, she described the battlefield situation as “complicated but under control,” dismissing claims that Ukraine’s counter-offensive into Russian territory had failed.
Despite the setbacks, Ukraine has managed to make incremental gains, and its leadership is committed to pressing forward in its fight against Russian forces. Ukrainian officials have continued to advocate for increased Western support, including missile systems that can target Russian positions far beyond the front lines.
Future Discussions Set for the UN General Assembly
The debate over providing long-range missiles to Ukraine is set to continue at the upcoming UN General Assembly. Lammy confirmed that these discussions would be a major agenda point as global leaders seek a unified response to the war in Ukraine. With over £3 billion in aid already pledged by the UK, the West remains committed to supporting Ukraine, though further steps, such as the approval of long-range missiles, remain on the table.
For ongoing coverage of the conflict and its global implications, visit GlobeJournal.co.uk.
I Alex Turner am the sports columnist and Premier League beat writer for GlobeJournal.co.uk. I’ve been with GlobeJournal since the days when dial-up internet was still a thing, but not as long as David Beckham has been a football icon. I’ve shared a pint with legends and had fish and chips with the locals. Well, only the fish and chips part is true. I am the most unpretentiously engaging columnist in the UK, and perhaps the world. To verify that, please contact my representation.
